How does ATS-34 compare to VG10?

BenLong1018

BenLong1018

Joined
Apr 12, 2012
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I know this may seem like an odd question because ATS-34 isn't used very often anymore. I want to buy a SOG X Ray Vision and I came across an older version with ATS-34 steel for $86 and the newer version has VG10 steel and is a little over $100. I do know that ATS-34 is equivalent to 154CM and to be honest I don't really know how that Compares to VG10 either. My question: Is VG10 worth the extra money over the ATS-34?

Also the new version of the X Ray Vision has a deep carry clip while the old version carries a little higher than I'd like so that's also a slight dilemma.
 
It's pretty close, VG10 has a little better better corrosion resistence. There are like dozens of threads about this already. vG10 vs 154CM, vs ATS-34 vs RWL34
 
In the past i sharpened 2 different SOG Vision models (titanium handles), one older version with liner lock and one with arc lock, and both in ATS-34.
These had the worst edge holding me and the owner of the knives ever saw in knives in that steel, so i would take my chances and get a VG10 version if you have to have a SOG.
Hopefully the heat treat on that is better.

Best ATS-34 in production knives i've seen so far was in a REKAT Pioneer and an older Spyderco Military.
In custom knives in various models made by Dutch makers Hill Knives and Dirk de Wit (both use exactly the same heat treatment process)
 
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I used Benchmade ATS-34 steel for many years while stationed on ships in a salt water environment. At the time I observed it was a definite upgrade from the 440C I had been using prior as far as edge retention and overall performance with the exception of corrosion resistance.

Next I was using BM 154CM and would say although splitting hairs here it did offer greater edge retention and better corrosion resistance. I did find it a bit harder to sharpen though.

I've never used Sog ATS-34 but I have used their VG-10 extensively with their Pentagon Elite I & II knives and the Vulcan and like it very much. Comparing it to 154CM I'd say they are about the same excacpt the VG-10 is much easier to sharpen (at least for me) and I am able to get, at least initially a much keener edge.

I would say Sog's Seki Japan made VG-10 steel more then holds it's own as a premium steel and I'm also honest enough to admit that there really is so little noticeable difference between it and the other steels mentioned in real world useage that I would have a hard time telling the difference between them if I didn't know ahead of time what steel I was using.

That said, Bottom line, Sog's VG-10 is good stuff! Although I like ATS-34 very much if given a choice I would prefer VG-10 but I don't think you can go wrong either way.

As far as the Visionary, I've been very happy with all the Arc lock Sog models I've owned. It's a great lock, very strong and reliable and super smooth to say the least. The ease of use of the Arc lock is very pleasing.

Hope this helps and best of luck!
 
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GatorFlash1 said:
Here is some knife steel info worth saving. Joe Talmadge is one of the original Master Bladesmiths.

http://www.zknives.com/knives/articles/knifesteelfaq.shtml

Steel is only one piece of the puzzle.
Click to expand...
Yeah. We got that one here, too.

Forum > Knife Specific Discussion > Maintenance, Tinkering & Embellishment > Steel FAQ


In everyday use, assuming being heat treated to equal hardness and the same blade shape, you won't notice any difference in edge retention between ATS-34 and VG10.
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/s...tainless-alloys-using-a-visual-inspection-tec
 
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